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October Warmth

The weather was quite nice today with temperatures back near 80 degrees F. The last couple of days have been comfortably cool but a little more sun and heat this week should extend our seasonal displays which are still hanging in there for the most part. We hope the chance of rain happens this Wednesday and Thursday as we have been without significant rain for almost six weeks now. Above is ‘Ripple Effect’ plantain lily (Hosta sp.) with some nice, undulating foliage. This time of year will become frantic once overnight frost temperatures start arriving. We have tropical plants to dig out and store as well as the quick conversion to lots of Holiday Light Show (HLS) set-up which continues daily.

Our grounds crew of Cindy, Big John, Terry, Larry O., Larry H., Bobby K. and myself all had myriad jobs to accomplish. Larry H., John and Terry continue with efforts for the HLS set-up. They all had watering duties as well as did Cindy and Larry O. Cindy worked on some gardening tasks as well. Bobby K. continues to work on some projects at the gardens including some power-related improvements that are necessary for the HLS. I caught up on some tasks and treated our formal garden turf for grubs as the skunks/raccoons? are tearing up the turf looking for a grub snack!

I had to leave early Thursday and missed Friday last week and wasn’t able to give a shout out to all of our great volunteers that have been helping out. Today was no exception with having a great volunteer turnout. Above are Garrett (left, supervising) and Dennis working on the north path project which is coming along quite well. Kathy and Eva were out planting and tidying. Alan, Ron R. and Bob K. were out collecting leaves while Dr. Gredler and Rollie mowed. Ron Y., Steve, Dave and Jim continued work on building new obelisks (for sale in the Cottage Garden Gallery!). Marv B. worked on his moss areas and we had office help from Peg (labels) and Mary Kay (library updates). Maury ran errands for us and Dick H. made some dump runs as well. We also saw Hayley, Maryam and many others today. It was a very productive day.

I am the Director of Horticulture at Rotary Gardens (Janesville, WI). Along with a talented grounds staff and dedicated volunteers, I enjoy being involved with this wonderful botanical resource. My educational background is in landscape architecture and urban forestry but it didn't take long to become a plant enthusiast and find a lifelong career.